Ferris State University

What you'll study

This bachelor’s programme combines core business foundations with specialised human resources coursework and applied learning experiences. You will study topics such as organisational behaviour, employment law, staffing and recruitment, compensation and benefits, training and development, performance management, and labour relations. Coursework emphasises both strategic HR management and day-to-day service delivery, including analytics for HR decision-making.

• Core business courses: principles of management, marketing, accounting, finance, and business ethics to build a broad commercial understanding.
• HR-specific modules: talent acquisition and selection, compensation and benefits administration, performance appraisal systems, employee and labour relations, HR metrics and analytics.
• Employment law and compliance: study of workplace law, equal employment opportunity, workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
• Learning and development: design and evaluation of training programmes, instructional techniques, and succession planning.
• Practical experience: internships, capstone projects or practicum placements with employers, and case-based courses that mirror real HR challenges.
• Professional development: preparation for industry credentials and workshops on communication, negotiation, conflict resolution and HR information systems (HRIS).

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent and demonstrate college readiness in English and mathematics. Admissions typically consider a combination of high school grades, leadership activities, and personal statements. Standardised test scores may be optional, so check current university policy; transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and details of prior coursework.

• Academic background: completion of college-preparatory subjects, particularly English and maths; coursework in social sciences or business is advantageous.
• International applicants: proof of English proficiency through recognised tests or university-approved alternatives if English is not first language.
• Recommended experience: part-time jobs, volunteer roles or internships involving teamwork, customer service or supervision strengthen an application.
• Additional considerations: applicants may be assessed on motivation, extracurricular involvement, and suitability for a client-facing, ethical profession.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of HR and people-focused roles across public and private sectors, nonprofits and small businesses. Typical entry-level positions include HR generalist, recruiting coordinator, training specialist, benefits administrator and compensation analyst. With experience and further credentialing, graduates progress to specialist and leadership roles such as HR manager, talent development manager, labour relations specialist, HR business partner or director of human resources.

• Human resources generalist
• Recruiter or talent acquisition specialist
• Training and development coordinator
• Compensation and benefits analyst
• Employee relations or labour relations specialist
• HRIS analyst and people analytics roles
• Progression to senior HR leadership, consulting or organisational development roles with experience and professional certification

Why study at Ferris State University

Ferris State emphasises applied, career-oriented education with close links to regional employers. The human resources programme is delivered by faculty with practitioner experience and includes practicum and internship opportunities that connect classroom learning to workplace practice. Students benefit from experiential learning resources, career services that support internship placement and job search, and student organisations that provide networking and professional development.

• Applied focus: curriculum designed to develop workplace-ready skills, including HRIS, analytics, and hands-on projects.
• Industry engagement: partnerships with local and regional employers for internships, guest speakers and recruitment opportunities.
• Support services: career counselling, résumé and interview preparation, and preparation for professional HR certifications.
• Community and networking: student clubs and events that provide peer support and links to HR professionals and alumni.